How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last?

Cocaine is an illicit street drug. It’s has a reputation for being highly addictive. When folks with an addiction to any substance decide to stop using, their first concern usually goes toward withdrawal. The withdrawal symptoms from most drugs are physical, with some potential behavioral and psychological issues as well. Cocaine withdrawal’s characteristics are the opposite. There are very few physical issues but plenty of psychological effects that warrant concern.

Cocaine withdrawal usually results in a crash, which can be defined as an extended period of psychological distress. During the crash, addicted individuals experience depression and anxiety. This is not surprising when you consider how cocaine affects people. After they use for even just a few days or weeks, cocaine makes them feel better than ever before. The high is euphoric, and they feel like everything is perfect.

Unfortunately, the crash isn’t just an episode of feeling down. Instead, addicted individuals often start to see things differently because their reality has changed. It’s like waking up after a crazy dream that seemed so real, but now it seems distant and odd. That’s what happens when drug abusers stop using cocaine or other stimulants. The crash leaves them feeling like they’re living in a dream, and the only thing that seems real is their craving for more of the drug.

If you’d like to know more about a cocaine addiction rehab program, call us today at 866.605.0532.

How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last?

Some of the other factors that could play into establishing a cocaine withdrawal timetable include:

• Depth and length of addiction
• Usual dosage
• Existence of any other addictions
• Psychological disorders
• Drug purity

The “half-life” for cocaine is rather short. With that in mind, it’s not unusual for cocaine withdrawal symptoms to start within two to three hours of the last dose. Within the first 24 hours, the user could experience minor symptoms such as exhaustion, restlessness, and an increase in appetite. During the second day of withdrawal, the ante increases. The user can expect symptoms like strong cravings, anxiety, irritability, erratic sleep patterns, the onset of depression, suicidal thoughts, and loss of concentration.

It’s not uncommon for some of these symptoms to last for ten days to two weeks. Eventually, the user should begin to feel better. When the worst withdrawal symptoms pass, the user’s ability to function should increase. However, they need to remain cautious. Symptoms like depression can linger for months.

The Importance of Detox

Under the care of medical professionals, a cocaine detox program could mediate some of the withdrawal symptoms. At the absolute least, doctors can prescribe medications to take away some of the discomfort and distress. A medically monitored detox from cocaine could take as long as one week. Without suffering pain, that’s not very long after a significant addiction.

During a monitored detox from cocaine, patients may sleep as normal, receive fluids (water, juice), and eat small meals such as soup or yogurt. Patients might receive medications to reduce pain, nausea, or diarrhea. These treatments are usually much less intense than those for opiate detoxification.

Treatment at Beaches Recovery

At Beaches Recovery treatment center, patients receive premier treatment services. Our comprehensive list of treatment services includes a wide range of treatment modalities and options. Here’s a short list of our offerings:

• Tides Edge: our cocaine detox center in Florida
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Partial hospitalization program
• Aftercare programs
• 12 step recovery program meetings
• Sober living

Having information about how long does cocaine withdrawal last, you should understand what you are facing. Before your addiction wastes more of your life, reach out for help. You can take advantage of the services at Beaches Recovery by calling us at 866.605.0532. If recovery only requires one phone call, this is it.